Opportunistic lymphoproliferations associated with Epstein-Barr viral DNA in infants and children with AIDS
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Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA is linked to lymphoproliferative diseases like CNS lymphoma and LIP in children with AIDS. EBV DNA was found in most LIP lung biopsies, highlighting its role in this complication.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in children presents unique challenges.
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a known factor in lymphoproliferative diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association of EBV DNA with lymphoproliferative diseases in children with AIDS.
- To identify specific EBV-related complications in pediatric AIDS.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of lung biopsy specimens from children with AIDS and lymphoproliferative diseases.
- Detection of EBV DNA using molecular methods.
- Serological testing for EBV antibodies.
Main Results:
- EBV DNA was detected in 80% of lung biopsy specimens from children with lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis (LIP).
- EBV DNA was not found in specimens with other opportunistic infections or in adult AIDS patients.
- Children with EBV complications showed specific antibody profiles to EBV antigens.
Conclusions:
- EBV-associated lymphoproliferative diseases are significant complications in children with AIDS.
- LIP in pediatric AIDS is frequently associated with EBV DNA.
- Further research into EBV's role in pediatric AIDS complications is warranted.
Abstract:
Two types of lymphoproliferative disease associated with Epstein-Barr viral (EBV) DNA--central-nervous-system lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis (LIP)--were recognised in children with human T-lymphotropic virus type III/lymphadenopathy virus infection and the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Eight of ten lung biopsy specimens from children with LIP contained EBV DNA. EBV DNA was not identified in lung biopsy specimens with Pneumocystis carinii, cytomegalovirus, or atypical mycobacteria but without LIP, nor was EBV found in lung biopsy specimens from five adults with AIDS. Children with these EBV-associated complications had raised serum antibody titres to the replicative EBV antigens, but most of them lacked antibody to the component of the EB nuclear antigen encoded by the Bam HI K fragment. EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disease is a common and important complication of childhood AIDS.